Wearing the hijab is only allowed in schools in Melle upon request – after public criticism and state intervention, this school regulation rule was removed again. “The wearing of the headscarf by students or teachers as an expression of their worship, which is protected by Article 4 of the Basic Law, is generally permitted in schools in Lower Saxony,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Culture in Hanover. This case was first raised by the sites “IslamiQ” and “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung”.
Primary and secondary school management in the Buer district wrote a letter to parents in early November outlining the school’s regulations regarding the use of headgear. Therefore, schools require that you not wear a head covering when entering a building or closed room.
Exceptions are based on request only
This also includes hats, caps or headscarves. “Exceptions are of course permitted, but must be requested from school management,” the letter continued.
The State Office for Schools and Education (RLSB) contacted the school authority – the city of Melle – and the school immediately after the letter became known, explained a ministry spokesperson. The legal basis has been demonstrated. “The school subsequently reversed this procedure,” the spokesperson said. A parent’s letter from the school is also sent to the legal guardian.
Insult to the principal
The matter is currently being examined further by the State Office for Schools and Education together with the school, he said. It is necessary to clarify how the letter appeared.
Insults against the principal were smeared across the school building. “The police are investigating, the school authorities are trying to clear the wall as soon as possible,” the spokesperson said: “In principle, we reject all forms of inappropriate communication, insults and actions that are punishable by law.”
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251113-930-286177/1
